February Has Arrived: Wedding & Prom Trends for 2026
Hello February! As the days begin to feel a little lighter and love is very much in the air, the boutique is buzzing with excitement. February is always a special month here at Not Just Brides, engagements are still fresh after the festive season, wedding plans are gathering momentum, and this year in particular the energy feels extra special. Looking ahead to 2026, there are so many beautiful trends emerging, and I’m delighted to share what we’re seeing, not only for brides, but for prom too.
Wedding Dress Trends for 2026
One of the strongest trends for 2026 weddings is a return to soft romance and effortless elegance. Brides are choosing gowns that feel natural, feminine and comfortable, with beautiful movement and a timeless quality that won’t date.
Our collections from Pure by Romantica of Devon perfectly capture this mood, with flowing skirts, gentle silhouettes and thoughtfully chosen fabrics that drape beautifully. These gowns feel light to wear while still offering structure and support, making them ideal for brides who want to feel relaxed and confident from morning to night.
Alongside this, Emma Bridals continue to shine with their refined approach to bridal design. Their dresses focus on clean lines, elegant shapes and subtle detailing, creating gowns that feel modern yet classic. These styles are perfect for brides who love understated beauty and want their personality to shine through rather than being overshadowed by heavy embellishment.
Modern Lace & Minimal Detail
Lace remains a much-loved feature for 2026, but with a more modern and refined feel. Designers are using delicate lace placement and softer floral patterns to enhance the shape of the gown without overpowering it. Emma Bridals are especially strong in this area, blending lace seamlessly with smooth fabrics to create a look that feels both romantic and contemporary.
Comfort, Confidence & Personal Style
Comfort continues to be at the heart of bridal design for 2026. Brides are prioritising gowns that feel as good as they look, dresses that allow them to move freely, enjoy every moment and feel completely themselves. Both Pure by Romantica of Devon and Emma Bridals design with this in mind, ensuring each gown offers a beautiful fit without feeling heavy or restrictive.
More than ever, brides are choosing dresses that reflect their own personal style, rather than following rules or expectations. Whether that’s simple and modern, soft and romantic, or something in between, the focus is firmly on individuality, and that’s something we love celebrating during our relaxed, personal fittings.
Love Is in the Air - Valentine’s Month
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, February feels especially romantic. It’s such a popular time for engagements, and we often see newly engaged couples beginning to dream about venues, dates and dresses. There’s something truly lovely about starting your bridal journey during the month of love, full of excitement, possibility and anticipation. If you’ve recently said “yes”, we’d love to welcome you into the boutique and help you take those first exciting steps.
Prom Season Is Busier Than Ever
One thing that has really stood out this year is just how busy prom season already is. We honestly can’t remember a time when the boutique has been so full of girls and boys this early in the year. Prom excitement is building faster than ever, with students planning ahead, securing their outfits early and making the most of the widest choice available.
Our prom collections are already proving incredibly popular, with both dresses and suits in high demand. It’s been wonderful to see so many young people finding styles that truly reflect who they are, and the confidence that comes with that is just lovely to witness. If prom is on your horizon, I’d definitely recommend booking sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.
February at the Boutique
February is a beautiful time to visit the boutique. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, the rails are full of stunning gowns, and there’s time to explore options without pressure. Whether you’re planning a wedding, getting ready for prom, or simply starting to gather inspiration for 2026, we’d love to help you along the way.
Thank you, as always, for supporting Not Just Brides. Being part of so many special moments is an honour, and I can’t wait to continue sharing this journey with you throughout the year ahead.
With love,
Claire 💕
Looking Ahead to an Exciting 2026
Happy New Year to you all, and welcome to the start of what I know is going to be a truly special year at Not Just Brides. There’s something about January that always feels full of possibility. The rush of Christmas has passed, the boutique feels calm and cosy again, and it’s the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead with excitement — and 2026 is already shaping up to be an incredible year
As I step into this new year, I feel so grateful for every bride, prom-goer, family and friend who has walked through our doors. Since opening the boutique back in 2014, I’ve had the privilege of being part of so many unforgettable moments, and that never stops feeling special. January always reminds me why I do what I do — helping people feel confident, comfortable and truly themselves during some of life’s most meaningful occasions.
A Beautiful Year Ahead for Brides
Throughout 2026, we’ll be welcoming stunning new bridal collections into the boutique, each one carefully chosen with real brides in mind. These gowns celebrate individuality, effortless elegance and confidence, offering a beautiful balance between timeless classics and modern designs. From soft, romantic silhouettes to more structured contemporary styles, every dress is selected to ensure brides feel not just beautiful, but completely at ease.
The process of choosing new collections is one I absolutely love — considering fabrics, fit, comfort and movement as much as the overall look. I’m so excited for these dresses to arrive throughout the year and to share them with brides who are planning weddings for 2026 and beyond. And remember, it’s never too early to start your bridal journey — especially if you want time to enjoy the experience fully and without pressure.
Prom Season Is Already Building
Although it may feel early, prom season is well underway, and 2026 is bringing some truly exciting new arrivals. Our upcoming prom collections are full of personality — from soft, flowing gowns to bold colours, sparkle and statement details. We’ll be introducing fresh styles, new shades and carefully curated designs that allow each prom-goer to express their individuality.
At Not Just Brides, we firmly believe that confidence starts with the perfect fit. That’s why personal fittings and inclusive sizing will always remain at the heart of what we offer. Prom should feel fun, exciting and empowering, and I absolutely love watching each young person light up when they find the dress that feels right for them.
Suits & Formalwear for Every Occasion
Our formalwear offering continues to grow and evolve too. Throughout 2026, we’ll be building on our popular suit hire and off-the-peg options, ensuring there’s something for weddings, proms and special occasions of all kinds. Whether you’re after something classic and timeless or sharp and modern, our focus remains on quality, fit and expert advice — so everyone walks out feeling confident and comfortable.
Enhancing the Boutique Experience
Behind the scenes, there’s so much happening that I can’t wait to share. This year is about refining and enhancing the boutique experience — from the moment you book your appointment to the moment you leave with your dress or suit. We’re focused on creating a space that feels relaxed, welcoming and unhurried, where you can take your time, ask questions and truly enjoy the experience.
It’s the little details that matter — a warm welcome, honest advice, a calm atmosphere — and 2026 is about continuing to build on those values while introducing fresh ideas along the way.
January: The Perfect Time to Begin
January is such a lovely time to visit the boutique. It’s quieter, more relaxed, and perfect for exploring ideas without pressure. Whether you’re newly engaged, starting to think about prom, planning outfits for a special event, or simply dreaming about what’s to come, I’d love to welcome you in.
As always, thank you for supporting my small business. Your trust means everything to me, and I never take for granted the role I get to play in your special moments.
Here’s to an exciting, inspiring and unforgettable 2026 at Not Just Brides. I can’t wait to share the journey with you
Claire 💕
Winter Warmth & Boutique Moments
December at Not Just Brides ✨
Hello lovely people, it’s Claire here — and I can hardly believe we’ve reached December already! The boutique is starting to feel wonderfully festive, and I wanted to share a little glimpse of what’s been happening behind the scenes.
December is always one of my favourite times in the boutique. The fairy lights go up, the kettle is on constantly, and there’s something really special about helping people choose outfits for events filled with joy, sparkle, and celebration. From winter weddings to Christmas gatherings to early prom planning, we’re definitely keeping busy — in the best way!
November has seen a big influx of prom girls coming through the door, full of excitement and ideas for their big night. It’s been such a joy watching everyone explore colours, shapes, and styles — there’s something magical about seeing their confidence grow the moment they step into the dress that feels just right.
One of the highlights from Friday past has been announcing Sayde Irving as our recent prom dress winner. It was such a lovely moment, and I can’t wait to welcome her and her daughter in for her fitting. If you’d like to be part of future chances like this, make sure to keep following our socials — we love doing little treats and surprises throughout the year.
Behind the scenes, we’re also preparing for the New Year, with new dresses arriving, fittings being booked in, and lots of planning to make 2026 even more exciting for our brides, prom-goers, and families. The boutique is full of chatter, dresses being steamed, fabric being checked, and the usual blend of laughter and happy tears that make this place feel like home.
As always, thank you for being here — whether you’ve visited recently, follow along online, or simply enjoy these monthly updates. Your support means everything to me and the team.
Wishing you all a cosy and magical December.
Love,
Claire x
November in the Boutique 💕
Hello everyone, it’s Claire here from Not Just Brides, and I can’t quite believe how quickly this year is flying by! November is fast approaching, the nights are drawing in, and the boutique feels wonderfully cosy as we help brides, prom-goers, and families get ready for some truly special moments.
A Magical Month for Brides 👰♀️
November is one of my favourite months for bridal appointments. The atmosphere is calm, the excitement is building for next year’s weddings, and our rails are full of beautiful gowns from Pure by Romantica of Devon and Emma Bridals.
We’ve been welcoming lots of lovely brides recently who are planning 2025 and even 2026 weddings. I always say — it’s never too early to start your bridal journey! Finding “the one” is such a special experience, and it’s a joy to see each bride light up when she steps into her perfect dress.
If you’re thinking of saying yes to your dress soon, November is the perfect time to visit — before our Christmas rush begins.
Saying Goodbye to Some Favourites – End of Season Sale 💍
We’re still running our End of Season Sale this month, with incredible offers on selected wedding and prom dresses. As new collections arrive for 2026, we’re making space on the rails — which means you could find your dream gown at a fraction of the usual price.
It’s been wonderful seeing brides and prom girls leaving with huge smiles (and even bigger bargains!). But once these dresses are gone, they really are gone — so I’d recommend booking your appointment soon if you’d like to take a look.
Prom Excitement Already Beginning ✨
Believe it or not, we’re already seeing a steady stream of prom-goers! Our Gino Cerruti and Romantica of Devon prom collections are stunning this year — full of sparkle, colour, and confidence.
I absolutely love seeing each girl’s personality shine through, whether she’s drawn to a glittering ballgown or a sleek fitted style. And for those looking ahead to Prom 2026, it’s never too early to start exploring — especially if you want the widest choice before the rush.
Suits & Formalwear – Always in Style 🤵
Our Peter Posh suits have been flying out for weddings, proms, and special occasions. Whether you’re a groom looking for something classic and timeless or a prom guest after something sharp and modern, we’ve got both hire and off-the-peg options available.
My team and I take great pride in making sure every gentleman walks out feeling confident and perfectly fitted.
A Warm Thank You 💕
As we approach the end of the year, I just want to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s visited the boutique recently. Whether you’re a bride, groom, prom-goer, or proud parent — your support means the world to me and my small business.
Since opening Not Just Brides in 2014, it’s been such a privilege to be part of so many unforgettable moments. November always reminds me why I love what I do — helping people feel incredible on life’s most important days.
Pop In and Say Hello 👗
If you’re nearby in Westbury, Wiltshire (and the surrounding areas), please do pop in or book an appointment. The kettle’s always on, and we’d love to help you find something truly special — whether it’s your wedding dress, prom gown, or formalwear for a big event.
You can message us directly or book through the website to arrange your personal fitting.
Sending love,
Claire x